Handmade shoes reward a little care. Here is how to keep each of our materials looking its best, so every pair lasts for years.
Everyday habits
- Give them a day off. Rotating pairs lets leather and linings dry out and keep their shape.
- Keep their shape. Fill them with acid-free tissue when you're not wearing them.
- Store them well. Keep them in a breathable cotton bag, out of direct sun and away from radiators. Avoid plastic, which traps moisture.
- Dry them slowly. If they get wet, blot off the water, fill them with paper and let them dry at room temperature, never next to direct heat.
Nappa and calf leather
(Deia leather styles, Arta Black Leather, Inca)
- Wipe off dust and marks with a soft, slightly damp cloth.
- Every few months, apply a little neutral leather cream and buff it in. Test it on a hidden spot first.
- On white leather, clean marks as soon as you see them; they come off far more easily while they're fresh.
- On printed snake leather, use a neutral cream only. Heavy polish can dull the print.
Satin
(Arta Black Satin, Arta Grey Satin)
- Satin marks easily with water, so save these for dry days.
- Brush off dust with a soft brush. For a spot, dab gently with a barely damp cloth; don't rub.
- A fabric protector spray adds some resistance to marks. Test it on a hidden area first.
Nylon mesh
(Deia Black Mesh, Deia Beige Mesh)
- Brush off dust with a soft, dry brush.
- For marks, dab with a cloth dipped in water and a drop of mild soap, then blot dry.
- Never put them in the washing machine.
Hair-on cowhide
(Deia Cow Hair, Deia Cheetah Hair)
- Brush gently in the direction of the hair to keep it smooth.
- Spot-clean with a damp cloth, blot, let it air-dry, then brush the hair back into place. Don't soak it.
Soles and heels
Deia has a resin outsole with a nubuck finish and a neolite heel with a rubber top piece. When a top piece wears down, any good cobbler can replace it, and doing so early protects the heel underneath. The same goes for every pair you own.
Questions about caring for a particular pair? Get in touch through our contact page.